Yom ha-Zikaron (יוֹם הָזִּכָּרוֹן)

Yom ha-Zikaron (Remembrance Day) is a memorial day for those who died fighting for the State of Israel. It is observed on the Fourth of Iyar*, the day before Israel Independence Day. Following the Kaddish after Aleinu in the morning service, a memorial candle is lit, the ark is opened, and Psalm 9 (“For the leader, on the death of the son”) is read. This is followed by Yizkor (May G-d remember) for the war dead, Mourner’s Kaddish by relatives of those killed, and the recitation of El Malei Rachamim. These additions to the regular liturgy are concluded with Psalm 144 (“Praised is the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for battle, my fingers for warfare”). At 11:00 a.m., sirens are sounded throughout Israel, signaling two minutes of silence and the virtual cessation of all activity throughout the country. In addition, a memorial ceremony is held at the Mount Herzl military cemetery, flags are flown at half-mast, and places of entertainment are closed.